When I first picked up the Metaxas & Sins pen, I had two thoughts. First, I immediately noticed the weight of the pen. It’s hefty for its size. Secondly, the shape and size of the pen remind me of mascara. Yes, mascara.
I am learning that one of the interesting things about reviewing pens is that every once in a while a pen arrives from the Desk headquarters that I’ve had no previous experience with and have not researched or heard much about online. In this particular case, I wasn’t even sure of the price point of the pen when I first started using it. I purposely inked the pen and used it for a couple of days before looking into any of the details of the pen online to see how my own perspective might be similar or different to how the pen is advertised and where it fits in the market.
Let’s start with some high points. The pen feels very solid, and as it turns out it is machined from a block of solid aluminum. You can definitely tell. The finish of the metal is also slightly textured and matte, which I think is a really nice touch for an all metal pen. It’s slightly grippy. The branding around the cap isn’t my favorite, but it’s not outrageous or large.
The pen is fitted with a full size #6 Bock nib. One interesting note is that you can only purchase the pen with a medium nib. At the price point of the Metaxas, additional nib options are almost expected. Issues with Bock nibs have been discussed in length, but I’m happy to say I didn’t find any issues with mine in this case. It was a smooth writer and a typical medium width nib. However, one potential issue with the pen for some people is the combination of the short section and the very sharp threads as seen above.
The section is compared to that of a TWSBI Eco and a Franklin Christoph p66 above. It’s not a huge problem for me because I have small hands, but it could be an issue for some- especially with how uncomfortable the threads are if you happen to grip the pen in that area.
Pen comparison (from L to R): TWSBI Eco, Franklin Christoph p66, Metaxas & Sins Stylos, Benu pen, Pilot Metropolitan, Lamy Safari, Pilot Kakuno, Kaweco Perkeo.
Compared to every other pen on the tray above, the Metaxas is the heaviest by far. Comparing it to the Desk common pen weights table below, its significantly heavier than all of the pens listed coming in at 46gms filled.
Overall, at almost $90 the Metaxas has some tough competitors. One of the most utilized pens in my entire collection, the Kaweco Brass Sport comes in around this price point as does one of Ana’s personal favorites the Caran d’Ache 849. The thing that makes this pen unique in this price range is the all metal construction, size, and weight of the pen. I’ve been asked several times at pen shows for the most affordable option for a larger size, heavy pen. In that specific case, this pen may be a good choice especially if the styling of the pen is personally appealing to you.
For me, the overall style of the pen is not one that speaks to me enough to use on a regular basis. But that piece is simply personal taste. Others may really enjoy the style of the pen, and in that case, outside the concern over the threads and the section, I think this pen could be recommended if you are specifically looking for a larger, all metal pen with solid construction and a variety of color options under $100.
DISCLAIMER: Some items included in this review were provided by Appelboom for the purpose of review. Please see the About page for more details.
